MEMBERS of the public concerned over healthcare cuts in Devon's hospitals are being urged to attend a meeting in Exeter on January 24. Anyone wishing to contribute their views about current and proposed changes by the Devon Primary Care Trust can attend the Devon Patient and Public Information Forum meeting at Exeter Racecourse between 1.30pm and 4pm. The forum has welcomed a review of health services across the county but is concerned over a number of significant changes which have already taken place so soon in the life of the newly configured Devon Primary Care Trust. The changes, which include the reduction of opening hours of minor injuries units, including the facility at Okehampton Hospital, are part of the PCT's plans for financial recovery — it currently faces an £8.4-million overspend. Forum chairman Byron Carnell said there were particular concerns over opening hours reductions in minor injuries units and the temporary closure of up to 100 beds in community hospitals. He said: 'The PCT has suggested that the closure of beds is only temporary. We have asked them to define temporary. 'By closing more beds, are we placing lives in jeopardy if a major incident, such as a flu epidemic, and its knock on effects, should strike Devon in the winter months?' The forum considers the measures, already implemented, to be a significant variation in services in Devon and that the PCT has failed in its legal duty to consult before the changes took place. It has contacted PCT chief executive Dr Kevin Snee, requesting further information and an opportunity to meet and discuss the issues.